SOGI YAC

Important  update  from The Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Youth Advocacy Council Board of Directors

The Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Youth Advocacy Council (SOGI YAC) was established with a vision that all youth be valued, supported, safe, and empowered to thrive, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. For more than a decade, dedicated community members throughout the Great Lakes Bay Region have united around this vision, providing education, advocacy, and resources to help youth, families, schools, and community organizations better support LGBTQ+ young people.

Given Family & Children's Services of Mid-Michigan's longstanding commitment to youth and families, including its leadership in establishing and sustaining the COMPASS support groups, SOGI YAC has chosen to entrust its legacy, resources, and ongoing mission to the organization. We are confident that Family & Children's Services will continue to advance this important work with the same dedication, compassion, and community-centered approach that has defined SOGI YAC since its inception.

As this transition occurs, we celebrate the many individuals, organizations, and youth whose contributions have helped create a more inclusive and supportive community. We look forward to seeing this work continue to grow and evolve under Family & Children's Services' stewardship for years to come.

— Heidi Knizacky

Founding Member and Chair Emeritus


Now more than ever, members of the LGBTQ community, especially trans individuals, need support. SOGIYAC has been dedicated to educating teachers, medical professionals and community members for the benefit of LGBTQ youth. I have confidence Family and Children's Services will continue to put SOGIYAC's resources to good use for LGBTQ individuals and their allies.  

— Dr. Juanita Rivera, Immediate Past Chair